New legislation outlawing the practice of puppy farming in the State has passed Parliament’s Lower House.
Minister for Local Government, John Carey said the laws had overwhelming support in the community.
“The Stop Puppy Farming legislation, which also includes reforms to de-muzzle greyhounds, involves changes to the Dog Act 1976 that minimise the number of dogs suffering neglect and regulate the breeding and sale of dogs in Western Australia,” Mr Carey said.
He said the new laws included mandatory sterilisation of dogs by two years of age unless exempt; the transition of pet shops into adoption centres; and a Centralised Registration System to hold information on dogs, cats and approved breeders, to assist with monitoring and enforcement.
“The Centralised Registration System will streamline the registration of dogs across Western Australia,” Mr Carey said.
“Everyone will be able to register their dogs and cats online, and easily transfer registration if they move between Local Governments.”
The Minister said the system would replace the many individual systems currently managed by each Local Government, streamlining the registration and tracking of dogs.
“Additionally, when purchasing a dog from any dog owner, breeder or approved pet shop in Western Australia, information must be provided to consumers that may assist them in determining whether the dog has been ethically bred and raised,” he said.
“A public awareness campaign will inform the community about when the provisions will come into effect,” Mr Carey said.
